United Way of 1000 Lakes is pleased to announce the 2024 Stuff the Bus drive received record support, preparing over 350 young learners for the upcoming school year.  

Highlights include: 

• 22 community partnerships
• 363 students received educational tools and resources
• 187 households facing financial challenges supported  
•  81 volunteers contributed 162 volunteer hours
• $6,800 estimated value of donated supplies  
• $14,210 funds raised to ensure every student has an opportunity to reach their full potential 
• 16 average tools in each backpack
• $50-60 average value of each backpack and its contents  

Research shows that children who begin school prepared for learning are much more likely to have tangible outcomes, including improved attendance, higher grades, and increased participation in extracurricular activities.  

“As we reflect on the remarkable support of this year’s drive, it’s clear that our community’s commitment to our youth is stronger than ever,” said Molly Hiipakka, United Way of 1000 Lakes, Community Impact Coordinator. “When we work together, we can ensure that every student, regardless of their circumstances, has the tools they need to t in thrive the classroom and beyond.” 

The program serves students and their families across Itasca County and the surrounding communities, including Bigfork, Cohasset, Coleraine, Deer River, Grand Rapids, Hill City, Nashwauk, Pengilly, and Warba. 

Throughout July and August, the program relies on a variety of support from business partners, and their employees, donors, and volunteers. This year, more than $14,000 was raised thanks to the generous support of dozens of donors and corporate sponsors including, the Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation, Grand Rapids United Methodist Church, Lake Country Power Operation Roundup, Park State Bank, and Walmart’s Spark Good program. Additionally, in-kind support is provided by Klockow Brewing Company, Palmer Bus Service of Greenway, Inc., Target, and Walmart. 

A new partnership was also fostered with Rapids Elementary Parent Teacher Committee where they volunteered throughout August and made an investment supporting their 103 students enrolled in the program. 

Funds raised through the effort are used to purchase backpacks and supplies in bulk. Each donation of $60 funds a new backpack full of grade-appropriate school supplies based on the child’s classroom. 

The global economy has witnessed a steady climb in inflation rates. As prices rise, families struggle to keep pace with the ever-increasing cost of living. Providing these supplies helps alleviate the financial strain on families.

According to a new report, ALICE in Minnesota: A Study of Financial Hardship, in Itasca County a total of 5,258 households (29%) are living paycheck to paycheck, spending a significant portion of their income on housing, food, and utilities, while another 2,095 households (12%) are below the Federal Poverty Level. When faced with such financial strain, children may find themselves without the bare essentials for academic success, leaving them at a disadvantage compared to their peers. 

The Stuff the Bus initiative is part of United Way’s Ready Kids, Resilient Families key pillars, supporting children and families throughout the entire educational process.  

Since 2021, more than 989 backpacks have been distributed to students in grades K-12 — a value of more than $50,000. 

To adjust to the program’s growth, next year will bring a new partnership with Yanmar Center, who will host larger backpack packing and pickup events on August 25-27, 2025. 

To learn more about Stuff the Bus, including making a donation, visit uwlakes.org/stuff-the-bus. For information about backpack distribution, contact Molly Hiipakka at molly@uwlakes.org or (218) 999-7570.